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Abstract

The nocturnal penile tumescene and rigidity sensor device includes a flexible, foldable member that supports a relatively soft foam material and a relatively hard foam material. In one embodiment of the invention the relatively soft foam material and the relatively hard foam material cooperate with corresponding force-sensing resistors to detect changes in penile tumescence and rigidity. The relatively soft foam material detects changes in penile tumescence whereas the relatively hard foam material and its corresponding force-sensing resistor detect the presence and/or changes in penile rigidity. In another embodiment of the invention, a relatively soft foam material and a relatively hard foam material, formed of conductive foams, are shaped to contact a conductive strip with preselected different areas of surface contact in response to different levels of tumescence and rigidity. The change of contact area between the conductive foams and the conductive strip is detected and recorded. In either embodiment of the invention the sensor device can be trimmed to conform exactly to the penile contour of a patient, and when testing is completed the sensor device is disposable.

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First Claim